Lion

The lion is the only member of the family in which the sexes differ markedly in terms of their adult appearance. Females are known as lionesses.

ANIMAL FACTS

Often described as the King of Beasts, lions are unusual amongst the big cats in that they are social by nature, living in groups called prides. The lionesses hunt collectively, using a combination of guile and strength to ambush and overpower creatures that can be much larger than themselves. They are usually related to each other, but young male lions will leave the pride and lead solitary lives, until they are strong enough to lead a pride themselves. The lion population in Asia is endangered, and elsewhere it is considered vulnerable, especially because of changes in land use.

VITAL STATISTICS

Distribution: Now restricted to Africa south of the Sahara, particularly on the eastern side of the continent. Also present in the Gir Forest, Gujarat state, India.